The accomplished receiver aspires to own several ventures when his NFL career is over. After a quick study, Smith knows the league is good business. That’s why as the Broncos’ player representative, Smith is closely watching talks regarding the collective bargaining agreement.

The contract is up in less than two years.

Smith is confident both sides will come to an agreement.

“We don’t want to be hockey,” Smith said. “We don’t want to miss a whole season. That’s why we’re already working on it and it’s two years away. It’s good that people are talking about it. That means something will get done. We’re all proud of our sport, and we want to see it go the right way.

“We know this affects everyone who is part of the league, not just players and owners.”

Smith said he will update his teammates as talks progress.

“There are some issues that, in the end, both sides will probably give in a little,” Smith said. “We all know this league is strong, and we want to keep it that way.”

Watton returns

The Broncos brought backup guard/center Chris Watton back Tuesday. He was claimed off waivers from Tampa Bay.

Watton, who was in camp last year, played with the Colorado Crush of the Arena Football League this spring. He was brought in to add depth to the offensive line, perhaps the team’s thinnest position. The Broncos need inside linemen since Josh Sewell quit the team Saturday.

“He knows our system real well,” coach Mike Shanahan said of Watton. “He’s impressed us in the past, and when we lost Jason … It’s really hard to find a guy who knows your terminology and a guy you thought a lot of. So, it’s nice to get one of those guys back.”

Elliss on his own

Defensive tackle Luther Elliss is flying solo in Denver as he attempts to make the team. Elliss’ wife, Rebecca, and their nine children are staying at the family’s Detroit home this year. The family lived in Highlands Ranch last year.

“It’s quiet without them,” Elliss said. “But we talk all the time, and I’ll see them soon.”

Footnotes

Receiver Charlie Adams worked some with the second team, as did first-year receiver Todd Devoe. … Defensive tackle Dorsett Davis left practice in the morning to attend the birth of his child. … Running back Quentin Griffin didn’t practice in the morning because of swelling in his knee but returned in the afternoon. … Tight end Jeb Putzier practiced through a knee injury. … Saturday morning’s practice will include a live scrimmage. … The afternoon practice lasted two hours.

Avalanche defenseman Erik Johnson had butterflies before Sunday's game against the Detroit Red Wings. It wasn't because of the big-name opponent, but rather his return from a 13-game injury absence and being stoked to rejoin a team in a playoff push and looking for its third postseason appearance in 10 years.